Ranggawarsita Museum, Ethnographic museum in Semarang, Indonesia.
Ranggawarsita Museum is an ethnographic museum in Semarang spread across four connected buildings, each focusing on different subjects. The buildings contain geological specimens, Hindu-Buddhist artifacts, objects related to Indonesia's struggle for independence, and examples of traditional Javanese craftsmanship.
Construction started in 1977 next to Ahmad Yani International Airport, and the museum opened in 1983 under Governor Soepardjo Roestam. The project grew from a desire to preserve the region's knowledge and traditions before they disappeared.
The museum houses objects that tell stories of the people who made and used them—statues, religious items, and handcrafted goods from the region. You can see how traditional craftspeople passed their skills down through generations and how these objects fit into everyday life.
Wheelchair access is available throughout the buildings, making it easy to move from one section to another. Plan to spend enough time here, as there is much to see and some exhibits contain details you might otherwise miss.
A meteorite found in Mojogedang in 1984 is displayed here and connects science with local craftsmanship. This piece shows the region's link to cosmic history, and local craftspeople even incorporated meteorite metal into their traditional weapons.
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